C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
Tamil Nadu has kicked off plans to introduce ropeway-based transport in key tourist regions,including a proposed 2-km aerial link in Mahabalipuram between the new bus terminal and the iconic Shore Temple, aimed at easing access to the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The project is part of a broader initiative by the state government to explore high-altitude cable-propelled transport systems in tourist destinations.
Following a recent budget announcement, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has invited expressions of interest (EOIs) from consultants to conduct detailed feasibility studies for ropeway projects not only in Mahabalipuram but also in the hill stations of Udhagamandalam (Ooty) and Kodaikanal, sources said.
In addition to the Mahabalipuram link, there are also proposals for two ropeway segments in Chennai’s IT and coastal corridor: a 1.7-km stretch connecting Taramanai MRTS station to Kandanchavadi Metro, and a further 1.0-km extension from Kandanchavadi to Palavakkam along East Coast Road (ECR)., However, there are no details on when these projects would be taken up, sources said.
CMRL is seeking firms with demonstrable expertise in preparing Detailed Feasibility Reports (DFRs) and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for ropeways.
The proposed Mahabalipuram ropeway would link major transit nodes with heritage attractions, offering tourists an elevated view of the coastal town while potentially decongesting local roads. In the hill towns of Kodaikanal and Ooty—where winding roads, seasonal congestion, and environmental concerns pose persistent challenges—cable-based transport is being explored as a lower-impact alternative to conventional road infrastructure, sources said.
The expression of interest is open via the state’s e-procurement portal. Officials say the feasibility studies will examine technical and financial viability, route alignment, environmental safeguards, and last-mile connectivity.
Tamil Nadu’s move follows similar initiatives in other Indian states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Gujarat, where ropeways are being seen not only as green mobility solutions but also as tourism boosters.
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